2018 Toyota Land Cruiser Prado – Not exactly new, but newer yes

If you are in the US, you still have a pretty decent choice when true off-roaders are concerned. You have whole pickup truck world, apart from Ridgeline, and you have full-size nonluxury SUV segment respecting the whole basic formula of an SUV. You can even go with the same size but this time plated with luxury connotations, or you can stick with way cheaper from them all, 4Runner or Wrangler.

In Europe, things are not so shiny. There, full-size SUV segment comes down only to Land Cruiser, and you won’t find the luxury side of it avoiding monocoque chassis and independent rear suspension. So, from that side of the pond, rare proper SUVs are loved and cherished by enthusiasts, so news about the 2018 Toyota Land Cruiser Prado might come as a blessing.

IT WAS ABOUT TIME

Land Cruiser Prado is the same thing as Lexus GX in the US, minus some luxury approach on the inside. It is for the Europe what is 4Runner for the States or last body on frame mid-size SUV along with Wrangler since Nissan Pathfinder recently decided to change sides. The current generation is on sale for painfully long 8 years, and it was about time for some fresh news.

Source: autoevolution.com

DON’T GET TO EXCITED OR…

Leaked images of 2018 Toyota Land Cruiser Prado show us what we can expect from when it officially debuts on September 12th this year. Still, don’t get all too excited as Japanese brand chose another facelift over the new model, four years after the first one happened. Or maybe do get excited because it is a substantial visual revamp, this time heavily including cabin.

Rumors are also suggesting that refresh is about to bring updates on safety field, part of Toyota’s recent efforts in elevating safety standards across the lineup. Automated emergency braking is about to receive ability of pedestrian detection and as novelty comes lane departure warning with steering assistance, automatic high beam lights and adaptive cruise control.

Source: autoevolution.com

2018 Toyota Land Cruiser Prado NEW OUTFIT

So what do the pictures say? We have a brand new fascia with hood bumped in the middle, headlights ditching tear drop shape, grille with much bigger slats and more curvaceous chromed rim and more visually complex front bumper. We also get new and more attractive alloy wheels. Overall, everything is notably sharper and in latest brand’s manner.

Tail received much less attention, getting only LED treatment for lights and modestly revamped bumper and tailgate. Finally, the cabin also got its share of newness. The instrument panel is completely redesigned along with totally new infotainment system screen, while no button or knob around or below it appears the same.

Source: autoevolution.com

WORTH OF WAITING FOR?

We admit that after so many years on the market Prado deserved a successor, not just another refresh. Fortunately, this is evidently more than simple nip and tuck and scale of work done mitigates our sorrow, at least partially.

So it is worth of waiting for since the debut is just months away and mainly, what else could you go for in its price range? If a Wrangler is a bit too much you are stuck with it as far as mid-size SUV segment goes, ones that don’t also fall under CUV moniker.